John Arnott will explore how opaque savings account structures, hidden fees, and conditional interest rates are quietly eroding the financial resilience of Australia’s 2.6 million small businesses. Drawing on AMP Bank GO’s research findings and insights from the ACCC’s Retail Deposits Inquiry, he’ll show how teaser rates, fine print and surcharges are costing business owners real money – and why it’s time for a reset.

Attendees will leave with practical tips to identify fairer products and avoid unnecessary fees.

Key themes:

• The hidden cost of complexity: How confusing bonus-rate conditions, surcharge rates and unclear fees reduce real returns.

• Fees that fly under the radar: Monthly charges, withdrawal penalties, and balance caps that hurt small business cash flow.

• Why transparency matters: The link between clear, fair banking products and business confidence.

• Policy and reform: What regulators and industry is doing – and what business owners should demand from their banks.

Takeaways for business owners:

• How to spot and avoid hidden banking fees, conditions and high surcharge fees

• What to look for in a truly transparent banking products

• Why switching accounts could unlock better value and flexibility

Closing message:

At a time where every dollar counts, small businesses deserve banking products that are simple, fair, and fee-free. Transparency isn’t just good practice - it’s essential for growth.

Every dollar counts: make your money work as hard as you do.